How to protect your babies and children from COVID-19

With all the sobering news about the COVID-19, the disease the virus causes, I am very worried that how can I protect my children from this virus. As of now, there is no vaccine for the infection.

Milstone says, “Children are exposed to COVID-19 when the virus contacts their eyes, nose, mouth or lungs. This usually occurs when a nearby infected person coughs or sneezes, which releases respiratory droplets into the air and onto the child’s face or nearby surfaces such as tables, food or hands.”

He says the best way to prevent children from becoming sick with COVID-19 is to avoid exposing them to people who are (or who might be) sick with the virus:

• Avoid crowds: Keep kids away from crowded areas when possible.

• Stay away from sick people: Keep children at least 6 feet away from anyone who is sick with a cough or fever, including family members. Nond Coronavirus Prevention for Children

Hand-Washing and Coronavirus Precautions for Children

The youngest baby diagnosed with Covid-19 infection was 1 month old. While another newborn diagnosed positive for Covid-19 is in UK, both infants have done good healthwise. However, if anyone in the family is Covid-19 positive, watch for temperature variations, feeding difficulties, lethargy or breathing difficulty in the baby. Best way to prevent the baby getting infected is to stay in isolation, and always washing hands before touching the baby. Also, no kissing on the face.

- Dr. Rakesh Tiwari (Paediatrics & Neonatology)

How to wash hands?

Milstone advises parents to teach kids to wash their hands regularly, with soap and warm water, for at least 20 seconds. “They can help keep track of time by singing the ABCs, which takes about 20 seconds to finish.

When to wash hands?

Kids should wash their hands after using the bathroom, sneezing, coughing or blowing their nose, before eating (even snacks) and immediately after coming inside from playing outdoors.

Kids who baulk

Milstone says, “If your child is refusing to wash their hands or becoming very upset when asked to do so, it might help to give them a small reward, such as a sticker, to celebrate each time they wash their hands. Compliment them for doing a really good job while washing their hands.” It also helps when parents set an example by washing their own hands frequently.

So, please do take care of these small things to help your family and children from this pandemic.

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